Companies Showcase Hubs That Connect Appliances To Create Secure, Smart Homes

ADT showcased a security system that connects consumers appliances to create a secure, smart home.

ADT showcased a security system that connects consumers appliances to create a secure, smart home.

As we know, the Internet of Things – or the connection of all our connected devices – is here to stay. So it should come as no surprise that a number of companies are showcasing products that create a central hub connecting consumer devices to one another, creating a secure, smart home atmosphere.

Toronto-based MMB Networks showed off its module aimed at providing a platform to connect all of its consumers’ smart devices no matter the type of network communication they use.

The hub would allow consumers to control all aspects of their smart home from a television, smartphone or tablet.

MMB showcases a hub using Zigbee communication to connect appliances that consumers already own.

MMB showcases a hub using Zigbee communication to connect appliances that consumers already own.

In a demonstration, a representative from MMB showed how the switch of a Philips remote could change lights from party-mode to romantic mood lighting while also locking the door and closing the blinds.

Hubs like those in development by MMB Networks, which should be available this fall for about $150, would go a long way in creating a more seamless environment for consumers’ smart homes.

In the past the smart home products have been cumbersome, with consumers having to toggle between multiple apps to control their appliances.

While MMB Networks’ hub can control all of your related appliances, you don’t have to have to invest in each piece right off the bat.

A rep for the company says that consumers can buy items piece by piece to create an arsenal of smart home alliances.

On the home security side of things, ADT showcased their Pulse Total Security system which uses a wireless hub toto connect consumers’ devices, while providing the company’s signature security services.

While the program comes with a monthly subscription around $50 and varying installation costs, the total security panel acts as a hub, allowing consumers to remotely control devices like locks, garage doors, thermostats, lights and appliances that consumers already own.

For example, someone with a beloved coffee pot won’t to kick it to the curb under the system.Instead they can plug in the appliance to a bulky adapter and then the wall. The adapter allows the homeowner to both power and control the device remotely.

Both ADT and MMB’s products will work to alert consumers of issues while they are away from the home.

MMB and ADT’s hubs are just a few on display at CES this year, other electronics companies such as Samsung (which we know loves the Internet of Things) have also made promises to the consumer to better provide seamless use of connected smart homes.

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